Chiff and Fipple Forums

Does anyone have any first hand opinions of Copeland Flutes? Any reviews?

Some mention years ago when they were still being made and/or re-sold.

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L.E. McCullough
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLcuLHy ... e=youtu.be

I've had 2 Copeland flutes through my hands. As mentioned in one of the above threads, I had to sell one to pay for a keyed flute from Holmes-McNaughton (Norman Holmes is on this forum). Mine were good players, not earth-shattering, but good strong tone & easy-blowers. My recollection is that both of mine had the short foot.

I think that not all the Copeland flutes were consistent. For one thing, there were the older flutes Michael made himself, and then there were a few years when he was partnered with Jim Rementer, and there were some limited batches of flutes that came out in that period. I'm not sure the business relationship continued to everyone's satisfaction.

Also take into account that instrument quality or at least quantity of production may have been affected by a health issue Michael Copeland had at one time in his history.

My own impression of MC's flutes is that they are comparable to Dave Copley's,
at least to the flutes Dave made back when he used brass fittings. Michael once played
my Dave Copley flute and was suitably impressed.

By the way, used Copeland flutes are being sold online at the Irish Flute Store.

I've known one that was very nice. I haven't played others. That person sold hers when she had a chance for an Olwell so there is that comparison. If you are looking at the flutes at the Irish Flute Store he does have a trial period. That makes the buying process less risky. I do believe you play postage, but that usually isn't that bad. If you are buying privately I'd suggest you get a trial period commitment from your seller.

I have a Michael Copeland. I bought it from a friend who needed cash - original owner who ordered it from MC in 1980's. It's lovely, warm and sweet at once. I would play the MC if I could. I'm petite, so I use a small-handed type. I will sell the MC soon, but it will be sad to let it go.